The idea that "greed is dehumanizing" can indeed be illustrated through the story of "The Good Samaritan" from the Bible. In this parable, as narrated by Jesus, a man is attacked by robbers and left half-dead on the side of the road. Several people pass by the injured man without offering any assistance. However, a Samaritan, who is considered an enemy of the injured man's people, stops to help. He tends to the man's wounds, takes him to an inn, and provides for his care.
The illustration of the topic "greed is dehumanizing" can be seen through the actions of those who passed by the injured man without helping. These individuals were motivated by their own self-interest, indifference, or avarice. They were focused on their concerns and ignored the suffering of a fellow human being. Their greed for time, convenience, or perhaps a desire to avoid getting involved dehumanized them in that moment. They prioritized their own interests over showing compassion and empathy for someone in need.
In contrast, the Samaritan's actions demonstrate the opposite. He was willing to set aside any personal concerns, prejudices, or fears and showed true humanity by helping a stranger in desperate circumstances. He displayed compassion and selflessness, illustrating that the absence of greed and the presence of empathy and kindness are truly humanizing qualities.
Therefore, through the example of the Good Samaritan, it becomes clear that greed, which often involves selfishness and indifference to the suffering of others, can indeed be dehumanizing. Conversely, acts of kindness, empathy, and selflessness, such as those of the Samaritan, are humanizing and reflect the better aspects of our shared humanity.